Child Abuse Prevention

All Crozer-Keystone Health System Hospitals must report all cases of suspected child abuse and injuries inflicted upon a child to appropriate authorities, in accordance with the procedures set forth in this policy.

Child Abuse is:

Serious physical or mental injury of a child which is not explained by the available medical history as being accidental;

Sexual abuse or sexual exploitation of a child including sexual offenses defined under the Crimes Code (see list of crimes noted below and in definitions);

Serious physical neglect of a child under 18 years of age if the injury, abuse or neglect endangers a child’s life or development or impairs the child’s functioning; and

NOTE: No child shall be deemed to be physically or mentally abused if the only reason abuse is suspected is because s/he is being treated only by spiritual means, by an accredited practitioner, through prayer alone in accordance with the beliefs and practices of a recognized church or religious denomination, even if the child is not provided medical treatment. [Should you have any concerns or questions when dealing with such a situation, contact Risk Management and/or the Legal Department for guidance.]

NOTE: No child shall be deemed to be physically or mentally abused solely on the grounds of environmental factors which are beyond the control of the person responsible for the child’s welfare such as inadequate housing, furnishings, income, clothing, and medical care.

Persons required to report include: Physicians, interns and residents; hospital personnel engaged in the admission, examination, care or treatment of persons; any other person conducting, managing or in charge of any hospital or pharmacy; any other person in charge of any ward or part of a hospital; medical examiners; coroners; funeral directors; dentists; chiropractors; psychologists; podiatrists; registered nurses; licensed practical nurses; Emergency Medical Services personnel; Christian Science practitioners; members of the clergy; social services workers; day care center workers and other child care or foster care workers; mental health professionals; law enforcement officials, and school employees.* Unless otherwise noted, the term “child” as used in this policy means those under the age of 18.

Warning signs of child abuse and neglect

Acting out sexually or showing interest in sex that is not age-appropriate

Frequent or unexplained bruises or injuries

Low self-esteem

Poor hygiene

Potential risk factors for parents

Isolation from family or community

Difficulty controlling anger or stress

Substance abuse

Lack of interest in the care, nourishment or safety of their children

Serious economic, housing or personal problems

More Information, To Report Abuse

Because child abuse and neglect occurs in every community, Crozer-Keystone Health System is proud to partner with many local organizations as part of the “Stand for Children” campaign to help prevent child abuse.

For more information about preventing child abuse, or to report an instance of abuse: